REBUILDING A HOME

130 year old st. elmo home is restored by haskel sears design after a house fire.

Phoenix Rising From the Ashes

A 130-year-old St. Elmo classic was destroyed by fire and restored by Haskel Sears taking a dream home from charred ruin through structural rebirth. With the expertise of a seasoned carpenter, much of the original heart pine wood was rejuvenated from the salvaged doors and mantles, or recreated from photographs from window casings, base boards, flooring and stairs. Custom knives were made for the molding machine to deliver authentic 1800s style crown molding. Antique diamond-paned windows were refurbished, the period kitchen rebuilt and bathrooms conveniently relocated during the restoration. A Certificate of Appropriateness was granted by the Chattanooga Historic Zoning Commission. A year after the tragic event the family moved back into their structurally sound home, with a more open floor plan, an upstairs master suite, new plumbing, heating/air conditioning, and all new wiring for 21st century peace of mind.

Design and rebuild by Haskel Sears. Photography and web design by KCULP.